Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up at home. With its colorful mix of ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you want a hearty main dish or a refreshing side, this salad has got you covered!

What makes this salad truly special is how it brings together a variety of textures and tastes that everyone will love. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in some healthy veggies while still enjoying every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for those days when you need something fast!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crunchy veggies and savory flavors.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side with your favorite protein.
• Make Ahead: Prep the dressing in advance and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing makes every bite exciting!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful salad:

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 Tablespoons apple vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or 1 teaspoon dry mustard)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt and pepper

For the Salad

• ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or grated parmesan cheese)
• 1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5-6 cups)
• 1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4-5 cups)
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• ¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian turkey slices (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Protein: Use grilled chicken, tofu, or even beans for a vegetarian option!
• Add More Veggies: Throw in diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try feta or goat cheese instead of Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by putting all your dressing ingredients into a small bowl or jar. Whisk them together until everything is well combined. If you’re using a jar, feel free to pop on the lid and give it a good shake! This step is essential because it ensures that each bite of salad will be bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine your shredded iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, Italian turkey slices, and mozzarella cheese. Pour your freshly made dressing over this vibrant mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that all those amazing flavors coat every ingredient. This is where the magic happens!

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

This salad is best enjoyed right away while it’s fresh and crisp. However, if there are any leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you’re prepping ahead; this keeps everything nice and crunchy until you’re ready to dig in.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe! It’s simple yet satisfying—just perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Making this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a breeze, but a few simple tips can take it from good to unforgettable!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese enhance the overall flavor and texture of the salad, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.
• Customize your proteins – Feel free to swap out the Italian turkey slices for grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version. This allows you to personalize the salad to your taste preferences.
• Prep in advance – Make the dressing a day ahead and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving your salad an extra zing.
• Toss just before serving – To maintain the crispness of the lettuce and other ingredients, toss everything together right before you’re ready to serve. This keeps your salad looking vibrant and fresh.
• Experiment with add-ins – Consider adding diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives for extra crunch and flavor. These additions can elevate your salad without much effort.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it well can make your meal feel even more special.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice over their salads for added zest.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These colorful skewers are filled with seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. They complement the freshness of the salad while adding a smoky flavor.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and spices makes for a hearty side that balances well with the crispness of the salad.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and chewy garlic breadsticks offer a comforting touch alongside this healthy salad. They make it perfect for dinner gatherings!
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes seasoned with olive oil and herbs provide a delightful contrast in flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chopped salad.

Enjoy creating this wholesome meal experience; your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
• Consume leftovers within 1-2 days for the best taste.

Freezing

• While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad, you can freeze the dressing if you want to make it ahead of time.
• Place the dressing in a freezer-safe container or bag and label it with the date.
• Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before use.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer your turkey slices warm, gently heat them separately in a pan or microwave, then mix them into your salad just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about this recipe!

Can I make the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients and store them separately. Combine everything with the dressing right before serving for maximum freshness.

What can I substitute for Italian turkey slices in the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

You can replace Italian turkey slices with grilled chicken, tofu, or even roasted vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian option.

How long will leftovers from the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe last?

Leftovers will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for about 1-2 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate!

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute Pecorino Romano or mozzarella cheese with your favorite cheese varieties like feta or cheddar based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe as delightful as I do! It’s a versatile dish that brings together fresh flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for lunches or dinners. Enjoy crafting this colorful salad at home and savor each bite! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or ask questions—I’m here cheering you on every step of the way!